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Off-campus eats: Pitts BBQ offers change of pace

Pitts BBQ is a few blocks away from IU South Bend in River Park. Pictured are Alexandra and Michael Pitts, children of Chef Robert Pitts. (Preface photo: Ryan Lohman).

By: RYAN LOHMANStaff Writer

IU South Bend has added more options for lunch and dinner in recent semesters and a few restaurants are only a short hike from campus, but it can still feel like pizza and subs are always on your plate.

One near-campus option to reward a bored palate is Pitts BBQ—and if you enjoy a short stroll before you eat, it might be your next lunch.

Chef Robert Pitts opened the restaurant at 1526 Mishawaka Avenue early last year. It might be what you’re smelling if you catch a whiff of smoked meats on a windy day. Even in the winter they smoke all of their meats behind the restaurant, about two blocks west of the Administration Building.

The restaurant has seating for 10 people. The furniture is patio furniture and the interior is sparse, but the smell of the restaurant gives you the impression that the majority of attention has been paid to the barbecue.

Pitts serves St. Louis style barbecue, which is one of the few major cities known for a specific version of the meat preparation.

“I have no idea what makes it St. Louis style, but it’s good!” said Jennifer Jones, restaurant manager.

Jones said they chose the location to be near John Adams High School for students who might want to grab something off-campus for lunch, but it’s just as close for any IUSB student looking for a dietary change.

“Their portions alone make it worth the trip, and they are reasonably priced,” said Victoria Rose, IUSB student. “I would recommend it to anyone who loves great barbecue.”

Although they don’t currently offer a student discount, Pitts has a student special. The manager said that if it’s not written on the menu board, then you should just ask.

Jones didn’t know which menu item to suggest to the hungry college student, but said “if you try it, you’ll be back.”

The restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.